You know its funny. When I had my first bike in the early 2000's, I never wore a helmet unless it was cold. I know, not very smart,but I thought it was cool to go with out one, and have the wind blowing thru my hair, or should I say over my bald head. But now that I have the wing, I find myself wearing my helmet a lot more, not saying that I have it on all the time, but most of the time it is on. I still dont ride with gloves on, unless it is cold. I have my blue goldwing jacket that i wear if its really cold, it is more like a winter jacket, and not really a riding jacket. I bought a mesh jacket a few months ago, and wear that one if its hot. It came with the protectors in it, but I cant stand the feel of having them in, so I took them out. I know, not very smart. Now boots, I dont even have a pair of riding boots, its just my tennies. I did notice that Eric had some really nice looking boots on this weekend, might have to ask where he got them. My wife dont even have a helmet yet, but we have decided to both get new helmets, and get some kind of communicating system.